The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25854, Hico, West Virginia is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 90.96 percent of the residents in 25854 has some form of health insurance. 35.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.18 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 25854 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 351 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25854. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 116 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 352 health care providers accessible to residents in 25854, Hico, West Virginia.
Health Scores in 25854, Hico, West Virginia
Alzheimers Score | 71 |
---|---|
People Score | 70 |
Provider Score | 77 |
Hospital Score | 40 |
Travel Score | 35 |
25854 | Hico | West Virginia | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Hico, WV (ZIP Code 25854)**
This analysis assesses the availability of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 25854, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and the overall healthcare landscape in Hico, West Virginia. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" based on factors impacting early diagnosis, ongoing care, and support for individuals and families affected by this debilitating condition.
The Alzheimer's Score will consider several key metrics: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices with specialized geriatric care, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources crucial for both patients and caregivers. Each of these elements contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment's capacity to address the needs of those facing Alzheimer's.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**
A critical component of the Alzheimer's Score is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically concerning primary care physicians. In rural areas like Hico, WV, access to PCPs can be a significant challenge. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all of which can negatively impact the early detection and management of Alzheimer's. Information regarding the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 25854 requires access to specific, up-to-date datasets that are not readily available for public analysis. However, based on general trends in rural West Virginia, it is reasonable to assume that this ratio might be less favorable compared to urban areas.
The availability of primary care is paramount because PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They can conduct initial assessments, order necessary diagnostic tests, and provide referrals to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians. The ease of access to a PCP directly influences the timeliness of these critical steps. The analysis also considers the proximity of primary care facilities. Longer travel times to appointments can be a significant burden for elderly individuals, especially those experiencing memory loss or mobility issues.
**Standout Practices and Geriatric Care**
The presence of medical practices with a focus on geriatric care and cognitive health significantly elevates the Alzheimer's Score. These practices often have physicians and staff with specialized training in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. They may offer comprehensive services, including memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and care coordination. The existence of such specialized practices indicates a proactive approach to addressing the needs of the aging population.
Specific practices within the ZIP code that specifically promote geriatric care would be a valuable addition to this analysis. Information about these practices, including the qualifications of their physicians, the range of services offered, and their patient-centered approach, is essential to determining the score. The presence of a dedicated memory care clinic or a geriatric specialist within the area would be a significant positive factor.
**Telemedicine Adoption**
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within the 25854 ZIP code is a key indicator of the healthcare system's ability to provide timely and convenient care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially overcoming geographical barriers.
For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. The availability of telemedicine services for cognitive assessments and specialist consultations would significantly enhance the Alzheimer's Score. The analysis considers the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the overall integration of telemedicine into the local healthcare system.
**Mental Health Resources**
Alzheimer's disease profoundly impacts mental health, both for patients and their caregivers. Patients often experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Caregivers face immense emotional and physical stress. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score.
The analysis considers the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the area. It also assesses the availability of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers. The existence of programs that address the mental health needs of both patients and caregivers is essential for providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The availability of these resources, and their accessibility, is a critical element in the overall score.
**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Conclusion**
The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 25854 is a composite measure, reflecting the cumulative impact of the factors discussed above. Without access to specific, real-time data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability, a definitive score cannot be assigned. However, based on the general characteristics of rural West Virginia, it is likely that the Alzheimer's Score for Hico, WV, would be lower than in more urban areas.
The challenges of rural healthcare, including limited access to specialists, longer travel times, and potential resource constraints, likely contribute to a lower score. To improve the score, the community should focus on initiatives that enhance primary care access, promote telemedicine adoption, and expand mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to create a more supportive environment for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.
**Call to Action**
To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hico, WV, and to identify specific resources and potential gaps in care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, geographically-based visualization of healthcare providers, mental health services, and other relevant resources within the 25854 ZIP code.
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